Take any two gamers and put them in the same room, and you’ll find that they’ll immediately launch into an argument about whether violent video games are appropriate entertainment for teenagers. One side will say that violent games promote violence and encourage the kids who play them to lash out against the world, while the other side will say that violent games provide harmless fun and that blaming these games for real-world violence is simply not logical or justified. Where do you stand on this issue? Do you agree with either of these points of view, or do you have another perspective on the matter? Join in the debate below!
Violence in Video Games: Why We Shouldn’t Be Surprised
Many violent video games have been blamed for teenage aggression and violence. But in his testimony to congress, Douglas Gentile suggested that it isn’t video games that are at fault, but kids who are drawn to these types of games. At first glance, we can look at a teenager playing a violent game and assume he is an aggressive person. But Gentile suggests we might want to consider whether these children with aggressive behavior tendencies are drawn towards violent games because they already exhibit those characteristics. In other words, do teenagers play violent video games because they are more likely to be aggressive or do they become more aggressive after playing violent games? This debate rages on as there has not yet been conclusive evidence either way. What do you think? Is there a link between violent media and real-life aggression or should we just let our kids enjoy their video games?
Violence in Video Games: Easy Targets or Innocent Pastime?
Video games are often seen as a cause of real-world violence, but is that really true? If a game is gory or realistic looking, many people assume it’s designed to appeal to dark and violent personalities. A brief glance at any gaming forum reveals dozens of arguments over whether or not violence in video games can lead to aggressive behavior in kids. But one thing’s for sure: there’s no definitive answer. Some studies show that playing violent video games increases aggression; others say they don’t. Some suggest they may even decrease aggression in certain situations. What gives? And what should parents do when their child wants to play a new shooter game or other blood-soaked title?
Are There Positive Aspects of Violent Video Games?
There’s no denying that violent video games are hugely popular, but what impact do they have on teenagers? Recent research suggests that young adults who play them regularly exhibit more aggressive behavior. While there is some truth to these findings, it’s worth noting a few key points 1) It’s impossible to isolate violent video games as a cause of aggression when other factors—like family history and personality traits—are at play; 2) Research has shown that playing non-violent video games can actually improve players’ ability to handle stressful situations; 3) Many teens turn to violence in real life because they feel powerless over their circumstances; by providing an outlet for aggression, gaming can be empowering and help young people find positive ways of dealing with difficult emotions.
Where Do We Go From Here, Now That Censorship is Out of the Question?
When it comes to censoring video games, there is certainly a debate to be had. Some people say that violent video games can have a negative impact on teenagers and young adults and that they should be censored. However, others argue against censorship in any form, citing free speech laws and other Constitutional rights as reasons why censorship of any kind is wrong. There’s no right or wrong answer to these questions.
Final Thoughts about Are Violent Video Games Appropriate Entertainment for Teenagers?
Technology is changing so quickly that it’s hard to keep up with how to raise kids in a virtual world. One thing parents of teenagers and pre-teens can be sure of is that there will always be some people who argue about whether or not violent video games are appropriate entertainment for young people. For now, those arguing against them seem to be winning. As technology changes and becomes more advanced, though, we may see a shift in thinking about violent games as appropriate entertainment for our kids. In fact, many believe that gaming could become one of America’s most popular sports by 2022. Only time will tell if violent video games are appropriate entertainment for teens, but there are reasons why you might want to think twice before letting your teen play them.
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